Centre for Biomedical Research

E. Paul Zehr, BPE, MSc (McMaster University), PhD (University of Alberta), Professor (Neuroscience & Kinesiology), Director

The Centre for Biomedical Research (CBR) is a collaborative group of scientists and clinicians investigating important biomedical problems. The CBR is a multidisciplinary unit with members from many faculties, departments, schools, and divisions across campus, as well as the Island Medical Program. There are seven research clusters within CBR: biological technology; neuroscience; developmental biology; cell signaling; cardiovascular; genetics; infection and immunity. CBR promotes interdisciplinary basic and translational biomedical research targeted at generating cures or restoring function in pathology and disease. Researchers in CBR have programs aimed at cancer, Rhett’s Syndrome, stroke, African Sleeping Sickness, fetal alcohol syndrome, and spinal cord injury, amongst others. Some members also work in collaboration with the B.C. Cancer Agency, the Vancouver Island Health Authority, the International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), as well as other local, national, and international agencies and foundations. Members of CBR are also involved in relating the importance of biomedical research through community engagement activities such as Café Scientifique. The Centre also hosts the “Let’s Talk Science” public outreach initiative at UVic.

Graduate students wishing to study in the center must be registered with an appropriate university department. Personnel from the CBR and cooperating agencies participate in giving appropriate coursework. M.Sc., Ph.D., and Post-Doctoral work can be conducted through the Centre.